My Best Rodeo Experiences: Houston and Calgary

Introduction to the Houston Rodeo

Houston is known for hosting a famous rodeo that takes place every March, lasting for about a month. This vibrant event is a mix of stock shows, musical acts, and people-watching. The rodeo atmosphere is electric, with cowboys and cowgirl outfits that add to the charm. During my visit, I remember seeing a group of women in front of me, all wearing jeans, boots, belt buckles, and hats, chatting in Vietnamese. Only in Houston, right?

Memories of My Young Rodeo Days

For me, some of the best rodeo memories came from when Roy Rogers attended the rodeo as a young girl. Although I've only visited the West through TV, I still have a deep love for it. Interestingly, the Houston rodeo I attended was performed in my home state of Mississippi, making it even more special. One particular highlight was when I borrowed a bareback bronc rig to give an exhibition bronc ride. My good riding horse, Joey, made the rodeo adventurous. Despite falling off a few times, I enjoyed every moment, as Joey and I trained together throughout his life.

Calgary Stampede: The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth

While the Houston Rodeo is a month-long affair, my most unforgettable experience was at the Calgary Stampede. Known as 'the greatest outdoor show on earth,' it spreads over 10 days with 10 days of rodeo, racing, carnival midway shows, and hundreds of parties all over the town. It's a place to experience great fun and excitement. I was with a group of friends on a vacation, and we enjoyed a small community rodeo in southeast Wyoming. Even though it was just a local rodeo, the event had all the essential rodeo events and many youth classes. The atmosphere was lively and full of fun, with people cheering for every competitor, even the little kids.

My Encounter with the Handsomest Man I’ve Ever Seen

During this rodeo in Wyoming, I had a memorable encounter with a man who truly stood out. He walked into the stands next to us, and the description is hard to forget: 6'1, late 20s-early 30s, black curly hair, slender but not skinny chiseled features, striking blue eyes, and wearing well-worn but snug Levis denim shirt and a Stetson. We locked eyes for a second, and he thought I was staring at him. I couldn’t help but think, 'Oh well, there's always reincarnation.' He was the handsomest man I've ever seen, and the encounter left a lasting impression on me.

Conclusion

While rodeos are held in many places, Houston and Calgary provide some of the most memorable experiences for rodeo enthusiasts. The Houston Rodeo, with its cultural richness and vivid history, and the Calgary Stampede, with its grandeur and excitement, rank among the best rodeos I have attended. These experiences not only brought joy and excitement but also created lasting memories that I cherish.

Whether it's the diversity in Houston or the energy in Calgary, rodeos offer a blend of traditions and fun. They are more than just contests; they are celebrations of the cowboy lifestyle and a way to experience the spirit of the American West.